The Guidance Guy

Dear Guidance Guy,

My friend always wants me to date somebody and I don't want to. Now half the class is asking me about it and everybody is calling me names. What do you think I should do about my friend?

Thanks,
No Dates

*****

Dear No Dates,

You don't say how old you are...I'm guessing on the younger side. It's very common for kids to joke with each other about dating as they start to grow up. And it looks like you're being joked about right now.

This should be pretty simple. When the kids in your class ask about you and dating, just tell them nothing happened. The more you say to them, the more they'll talk about it. And when they call you names, try to ignore it. If you get angry or upset, it will just make them want to do it more. You know how it works - kids will make fun of another kid when they get them to be upset.

What to do about your friend? I'm guessing he/she told everyone about your "date," which didn't really happen. Ask how it would make them feel if people were talking about them. If this is a good friend, they'll understand and stop talking about it. If they keep going, they might not be a good friend for you right now.

Hope That Helps,
The Guidance Guy

P.S. Maybe your friend is the person who wants to date but is afraid to admit it!